laser pointer visibility with lcd monitors for sale

When using PowerPoint Live to share content in a Teams meeting, emphasize your points and engage viewers with the colorful laser pointer and drawing tools. Your “ink” will be visible to everyone in the meeting.

Go to Pointer, then set any of these options:Shake mouse pointer to locate:Turn this option on to make the pointer larger when you quickly move your finger on the trackpad or quickly move the mouse.

The most important law covering U.S. lasers isand. These cover laser products, and three uses of lasers (demonstrations, medical and surveying/alignment). The Food and Drug Administration"s "Center for Devices and Radiological Health" issues regulations and reviews variances based on these laws. For more information, see the page at this website on.

(a) OFFENSE -- Whoever knowingly aims the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States, or at the flight path of such an aircraft, shall be fined under this title or imprisoned not more than 5 years, or both.

(b) LASER POINTER DEFINED -- As used in this section, the term `laser pointer" means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object.

(d) The Attorney General, in consultation with the Secretary of Transportation, may provide by regulation, after public notice and comment, such additional exceptions to this section, as may be necessary and appropriate. The Attorney General shall provide written notification of any proposed regulations under this section to the Committees on the Judiciary of the House and Senate, the Committee on Transportation and Infrastructure in the House, and the Committee on Commerce, Science and Transportation in the Senate not less than 90 days before such regulations become final.

109th Congress, 2005-2006 HR 1400. Passed by the House Dec. 8 2005. Passed by the Senate Dec. 22 2005. No House-Senate conference, expired before it could be sent to the President[Note from LaserPointerSafety.com: The above law also applies to drones (unmanned aircraft systems) since they are considered to be aircraft by the Federal Aviation Administration.]

On June 1 2011, Federal Aviation Administration lawyers issued a memo stating that the agency can impose civil penalties on persons who aim laser pointers at an aircraft. The advice is based on interpreting an existing provision, 14 CFR 91.11, prohibiting interference with a crewmember of an aircraft. Details about 14 CFR 91.11 and the memo are here.

On July 15 2016, President Obama signed into law a bill which increased the FAA’s laser interference civil penalty to $25,000; it was previously $11,000. More information on the bill is here.

(a) Prohibition.--It shall be unlawful to cause the beam of a laser pointer to strike a vessel operating on the navigable waters of the United States.

(c) Laser Pointer Defined.--In this section the term `laser pointer" means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object.

According to a January 27 2021 news article, "[o]ffenders who target a Coast Guard vessel with a laser pointer and harm an officer can receive up to $25,000 in civil fines, and criminal penalties can include up to 25 years imprisonment."

A LaserPointerSafety.com news itemabout the new law also includes commentary comparing and contrasting this January 2021 bill, affecting maritime vessels, with the similar February 2012 U.S. bill making it illegal to aim a laser pointer beam at an aircraft, or the flight path of an aircraft.

In December 2012, the FDA"s Center for Devices and Radiological Health began recommending labeling with the following, or similar, language: “CAUTION - LASER LIGHT IS BRIGHT AND BLINDING - DO NOT SHINE AT AIRCRAFT OR VEHICLES AT ANY DISTANCE.” This label is a recommendation only, and is not a requirement, because FDA does not have statutory authority over non-health hazards such as distraction or temporary flash blindness. The recommendation is being provided to manufacturers of Surveying, Leveling and Alignment lasers, which in FDA"s opinion includes laser pointers and handheld lasers.

In 2017 the U.S. Food and Drug Administration posted a webpage with "Important Information for Laser Pointer Manufacturers". This describes the agency"s regulations and interpretations that cover laser pointers.

The Food and Drug Administration is proposing to amend the Federal Performance Standard for Laser Products (21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11). FDA says the changes are intended to 1) put U.S. standards closer to international IEC 60825 standards, 2) to help manufacturers lower costs, 3) to improve FDA’s effectiveness in regulating laser products and 4) to better protect and promote the public health.

On October 25 2016, the Food and Drug Administration proposed sweeping changes to U.S. federal laser pointer laws. Their intent is to designate all laser pointers that are not red as “defective.” This designation would prohibit U.S. sales of green, blue and other non-red pointers and would make it easier for FDA to control and seize imports of such lasers.

The Radiation Control for Health and Safety Act of 1968 and the Medical Device Regulation Act (Amendments) of 1976 give the Food and Drug Administration its authority over laser products. For most persons involved with lasers and FDA, they would only need to deal with the current regulations (21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11 being the most prominent). The link to the RCHSA is provided for historical and background purposes.

Below is from the October 16 2019 Food and Drug Administration Import Alert 95-04, also known as the "Red List". It lists firms and their products which are subject to "Detention without Physical Examination". The list is organized by country of origin. The Import Alert link may be updated from time to time.

"Detention Without Physical Examination Of Laser Pointers, Laser Gunsights, Laser Levels, Laser Light Shows, Laser Pointer Key Chains, & Similar Products That Fail To Comply With Applicable Performance Standards And Reporting Requirements."

*** This Import Alert was originally issued in December 1997 after investigation by FDA"s San Francisco District (SAN-DO) revealed numerous laser products from numerous foreign suppliers were subject to refusal as indicated by sections 536 of the FFDCA, for violations of section 534, 21 CFR 1002.10, 1010.2, 1010.3, 1040.10(g) and/or 1040.10(h).

*** Districts may detain without physical examination (DWPE) all shipments of the same product as was originally found violative such as laser pointers, laser gunsights, laser levels, laser pointer key chains, laser light show projectors, and similar products (covered laser products) from the manufacturers/shippers listed on the attachment to this alert.

In addition, covered laser products are subject to detention if, among other reasons, an examination shows they do not appear to comply with the appropriate standard as follows:

*** Refer to the guidance documents Laser Notices 43 and 53 (available at http://www.fda.gov/Radiation-EmittingProducts/ElectronicProductRadiationControlProgram/IndustryGuidance) for information about FDA"s compliance policies in these situations. ***

*** In order to remove a firm from detention without physical examination, information should be provided to FDA to adequately demonstrate that the manufacturer has resolved the conditions that gave rise to the appearance of the violation, so that the agency will have confidence that future entries will be in compliance. For example, when appropriate, the request should include information for FDA to adequately assess whether the manufacturer"s quality control and testing program is in compliance with the Electronic Product Radiation Control Act (Federal Food, Drug and Cosmetic Act, Chapter V, Subchapter C) and 21 CFR 1010.2 and their laser products comply with the Federal Performance Standard for Laser Products (21 CFR 1040.10 and 1040.11). In addition, under 21 CFR 1002.10(k), the importer must provide other information CDRH may reasonably require to determine whether the importer is in compliance with the Electronic Product Radiation Control Act and applicable standards.

If a firm, shipper or importer wishes to request removal from detention without physical examination, they should forward information supporting their request to FDA at the following address:

Laser Pointers, Laser Gunsights, Laser Pens, Laser Light Show Projectors, Laser Special Effects, Laser Levels, Toy Guns with Lasers, Laser Pointer Key Chains, and similar products.

*** "The article is subject to refusal of admission pursuant to Section 536(a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) in that it appears that the article fails to comply with applicable standards prescribed under section 534 [Non standard, Section 536(a)]"

"The article is subject to refusal of admission pursuant to Section 536(a) of the Federal Food, Drug, and Cosmetic Act (FFDCA) in that it appears that the article does not have affixed to it a certification in the form of a label or tag in conformity with section 534(h) [Not certified, Section 536(a)]"

"The article appears to be an electronic product that does not comply with an applicable standard as prescribed by Section 534 because no reporting has been provided as required by Section 537(b)."

[The FDA Import Alert then has a list of countries, and within countries, the firms and their products which are subject to customs detention. To see the entire list, visit the Import Alert link.]

Note: This law originally only covered aiming a laser pointer at a peace officer. Aamended this to include aiming at an occupied aircraft. The bill wason April 30 2014.

A. A person commits aiming a laser pointer at a peace officer if the person intentionally or knowingly directs the beam of light from a laser pointer or laser emitting device at another person and the person knows or reasonably should know that the other person is a peace officer.

B. A person commits aiming a laser pointer at an occupied aircraft if the person intentionally or knowingly directs the beam of light from a laser pointer or laser emitting device at an aircraft and the person knows or reasonably should know that the aircraft is occupied.

C. Aiming a laser pointer at a peace officer is a class 1 misdemeanor. [See this story about a proposed bill in February 2021 to make it a Class 6 felony if aiming at a peace officer during a violent or disorderly assembly.]

D. Aiming a laser pointer at an occupied aircraft is a class 1 misdemeanor. If the act renders the pilot unable to safely operate the aircraft or causes serious physical injury to any person on board the aircraft it is an assault pursuant to this chapter.

2. "Laser pointer or laser emitting device" means any device that is designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark or identify a specific position, place, item or object.

General laws about laser use in Arizona are in the Arizona Administrative Code, Title 9. Health Services, Chapter 7. Radiation Control, Article 14. Registration of Nonionizing Radiation Sources and Standards for Protection Against Nonionizing Radiation. Search this documentfor the word "laser" or go to the sections beginning at R9-7-1421.

Act 1408 (HB2192) - The act prohibits persons under the age of 18 years from possessing a hand-held laser pointer without the supervision of a parent, guardian or teacher and allows for the confiscation of the hand-held laser pointer by law enforcement officers.

Section 247.5Any person who willfully and maliciously discharges a laser at an aircraft, whether in motion or in flight, while occupied, is guilty of a violation of this section, which shall be punishable as either a misdemeanor by imprisonment in the county jail for not more than one year or by a fine of one thousand dollars ($1,000), or a felony by imprisonment in the state prison for 16 months, two years, or three years, or by a fine of two thousand dollars ($2,000). This section does not apply to the conduct of laser development activity by or on behalf of the United States Armed Forces.

As used in this section, "laser" means a device that utilizes the natural oscillations of atoms or molecules between energy levels for generating coherent electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet, visible, or infrared region of the spectrum, and when discharged exceeds one milliwatt continuous wave.

Any person who, with the intent to interfere with the operation of an aircraft, willfully shines a light or other bright device, of an intensity capable of impairing the operation of an aircraft, at an aircraft, shall be punished by a fine not exceeding one thousand dollars ($1,000), or by imprisonment in a county jail not exceeding one year, or by both that fine and imprisonment.Section 417.25

(a) Every person who, except in self-defense, aims or points a laser scope, as defined in subdivision (b), or a laser pointer, as defined in subdivision (c), at another person in a threatening manner with the specific intent to cause a reasonable person fear of bodily harm is guilty of a misdemeanor, punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for up to 30 days. For purposes of this section, the laser scope need not be attached to a firearm.

(b) As used in this section, "laser scope" means a portable battery-powered device capable of being attached to a firearm and capable of projecting a laser light on objects at a distance.

(c) As used in this section, "laser pointer" means any hand held laser beam device or demonstration laser product that emits a single point of light amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation that is visible to the human eye.

(a) Any person who aims or points a laser scope as defined in subdivision (b) of Section 417.25, or a laser pointer, as defined in subdivision (c) of that section, at a peace officer with the specific intent to cause the officer apprehension or fear of bodily harm and who knows or reasonably should know that the person at whom he or she is aiming or pointing is a peace officer, is guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by imprisonment in a county jail for a term not exceeding six months.

Section 417.27 (a) No person, corporation, firm, or business entity of any kind shall knowingly sell a laser pointer to a person 17 years of age or younger, unless he or she is accompanied and supervised by a parent, legal guardian, or any other adult 18 years of age or older.

(b) No student shall possess a laser pointer on any elementary or secondary school premises unless possession of a laser pointer on the elementary or secondary school premises is for a valid instructional or other school-related purpose, including employment.

(c) No person shall direct the beam from a laser pointer directly or indirectly into the eye or eyes of another person or into a moving vehicle with the intent to harass or annoy the other person or the occupants of the moving vehicle.

(d) No person shall direct the beam from a laser pointer directly or indirectly into the eye or eyes of a guide dog, signal dog, service dog, or dog being used by a peace officer with the intent to harass or annoy the animal.

On November 3 2020, Los Angeles municipal code section 55.07 was amended to prohibit carrying or possessing lasers while attending or participating in any public demonstration, rally, protest, picket line or public assembly. Specifically, it prohibits "laser pointers or laser-style device emitting any color beam, milliwatt output level, intensity class level or any visibility level, including infrared or non-visible."

(a) As used in this section, “laser pointer” means a hand-held device that emits a laser light beam and is designed to be used by the operator to indicate, mark or identify a specific position, place, item or object.

(b) No person shall sell, offer to sell, lease, give or otherwise provide a laser pointer to a person under eighteen years of age, except as provided in subsection (d) of this section.

(c) No person under eighteen years of age shall possess a laser pointer on school grounds or in any public place, except as provided in subsection (d) of this section.

(d) A person may temporarily transfer a laser pointer to a person under eighteen years of age for an educational or other lawful purpose provided the person to whom the laser pointer is temporarily transferred is under the direct supervision of a parent, legal guardian, teacher, employer or other responsible adult.

(e) No person shall shine, point or focus a laser pointer, directly or indirectly, upon or at another person in a manner that can reasonably be expected to cause harassment, annoyance or fear of injury to such other person.

(1) As used in subsection (2), the term "laser lighting device" means a hand-held device, not affixed to a firearm, which emits a laser beam that is designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object. As used in subsection (3), the term "laser lighting device" means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission.

(2) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device at a law enforcement officer, engaged in the performance of his or her official duties, in such a manner that would cause a reasonable person to believe that a firearm is pointed at him or her commits a noncriminal violation, punishable as provided in s. 775.083.

(3) (a) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft commits a felony of the third degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

(b) Any person who knowingly and willfully shines, points, or focuses the beam of a laser lighting device on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft and such act results in bodily injury commits a felony of the second degree, punishable as provided in s. 775.082, s. 775.083, or s. 775.084.

On May 10 1999, the city commission of Leesburg (Lake County) Florida passed a law making it a misdemeanor to directly or indirectly shine a laser on another person to harass them.

Georgia Senate Bill 441 passed the Senate Feb. 27 2012 by a vote of 43 to 4 (with 5 Senators not voting and 4 Senators excused). As of March 21 2012, SB 411 is under consideration by the House.

The proposed bill would 1) amend Article 2 of Chapter 10 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to establish the offense of unlawful pointing of a laser device at a law enforcement officer, and 2) amend Chapter 11 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated to prohibit aiming a laser pointer or projecting a laser on or at an aircraft or the flight path of an aircraft. The legislative history of the bill is at the Georgia General Assembly website.

SECTION 1.Article 2 of Chapter 10 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to obstruction of public administration and related offenses, is amended by adding a new Code section to read as follows:"16-10-34.(a)For purposes of this Code section, the term "laser device" means a device designed to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object. Such term also means a device that projects a beam or point of light by means of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation or other means or that emits light which simulates the appearance of a beam of light.(b)It shall be unlawful for any person to knowingly and intentionally project upon a law enforcement officer any laser device without such officer"s permission if:

(d)It shall not be a defense to a prosecution for a violation of this Code section that the laser device was pointed at such officer through a glass, window, or other transparent or translucent object.(e)Each violation of this Code section shall constitute a separate offense. A sentence imposed under this Code section may be imposed separately from and consecutive to or concurrent with a sentence for any other offense related to the act or acts establishing the offense under this Code section."SECTION 2.Chapter 11 of Title 16 of the Official Code of Georgia Annotated, relating to offenses against public order and safety, is amended by adding a new Code section to read as follows:"16-11-45.(a)As used in this Code section, the term:

(1) "Laser" means any device that projects a beam or point of light by means of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation or a device that emits light which simulates the appearance of a laser.

(2) "Laser pointer" means any device designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark, or identify a specific position, place, item, or object.(b)Except as otherwise provided in subsection (c) of this Code section, whoever knowingly and intentionally aims the beam of a laser pointer, or projects a laser, at an aircraft or at the flight path of an aircraft shall be guilty of a misdemeanor.(c)Laser or laser pointer airspace uses that have been reviewed and approved by the Federal Aviation Administration are exempt from the provisions of this Code section."SECTION 3.This Act shall become effective on July 1, 2012, and shall apply to offenses committed on or after such date.SECTION 4.All laws and parts of laws in conflict with this Act are repealed.

As used in this chapter, “laser pointing device” means any hand-held laser device, which is not designed as a sighting device for a weapon nor for use in a medical procedure. This term includes the commercially-available device, which is commonly known as a “laser pen” or “laser pointer”.

No person eighteen years of age or over shall intentionally focus, point, or shine a laser pointing device directly or indirectly into the eye or eyes of another person, or upon another person or animal, in such a manner as would reasonably be expected to annoy, harass, or alarm the person or animal.

Sections 136-3 and 136-4 shall not apply to any hand-held laser devices used in a recreational activity commonly referred to as “laser tag”, and which activity is offered for a fee by an amusement or recreation facility, provided that the devices shall be collected by the operator of the facility following their use.

Under section 315:60, Class 3B and 4 lasers must be registered with the State of Illinois. This includes lasers brought from out-of-state into Illinois (registration must be done 10 days in advance of the laser"s use in Illinois).

Although Section 315.190 states that "Each laser installation required to be registered pursuant to this Act and this Part shall pay an annual registration fee of $50", other sources state that the registration form does not require payment. Check with IEMA to find out their current policy.

In January 2011, Illinois state representative Dave Winters (Rep. - Shirland) introduced HB0167, which amends the state criminal code to make “discharging a laser into the cockpit of an aircraft” a Class A misdemeanor. Winters is a pilot who wants to give state police jurisdiction over the crime.

HB0167 is similar to HR 387, a bill introduced in the U.S. House of Representatives in 2011. One difference is that the Illinois state bill criminalizes using any “laser” that illuminates a cockpit, while the federal bill only applies to “laser pointers”. Another difference is that HB0167 contains two of the three exceptions in HR 387. While it provides an exemption for R&D and flight tests, and for the Defense and Homeland Security Departments, it does not provide any exemption for lasers used to signal in emergency rescue situations.

(a) A person commits discharging a laser at an aircraft when he or she intentionally or knowingly aims and discharges a laser or other device that creates visible light into the cockpit of an aircraft that is in the process of taking off, landing, or is in flight.

(b) Exceptions. This Section does not apply to the following individuals who aim and discharge a laser or other device at an aircraft:(1) an authorized individual in the conduct of research and development or flight test operations conducted by an aircraft manufacturer, the Federal Aviation Administration, or any other person authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct such research and development or flight test operations; or

Seefor Illinois law about lasers in general. In this section, there does not appear to be anything specifically addressing laser pointer misuse or aircraft illumination.

WHEREAS, laser pointers were developed for use in the educational and business community, and outside these contexts, serve no useful purpose in the hands of a minor;

WHEREAS, laser pointers are being used by individuals in such a manner as to harass, annoy and potentially cause bodily harm to those at whom they are directed; .

WHEREAS, the resemblance of the red dot emitted by laser pointers to that emitted by the laser sights of firearms creates a safety issue for law enforcement otfficers and others; and

WHEREAS, the Champaign County Sheriff s Office has received complaints regarding the use of laser pointers, and at least one officer has needed medical treatment because the laser beam from a laser pointer was directed at his eye;

This ordinance shall be known as the "Ordinance Governing the Possession and Use of Laser Pointers." This ordinance shall be in full force and effect from and after its passage, unless repealed.

LASER POINTER is defined as any hand-held device, which emits light, amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation, which is visible to the human eye.

No person under the age of eighteen(18) years shall possess a laser pointer while on public property. Nothing contained in this section shall be deemed to prohibit possession of a laser pointer on school property by a student when such possession is pursuant to a legitimate educational purpose.

It shall be unlawful for any person to focus, point or shine a laser pointer on another person or in the immediate vicinity of such person, in such a manner as to alarm or disturb such person.

It shall be unlawful for any person to focus, point or shinea laser pointer on another person or in the immediate vicinity of such person, in such a manner as to simulate the laser sight of a firearm.

It is unlawful for any person less than eighteen years of age to have in his or her possession at any private or public place, except as provided herein, a laser pointer of the following type:

(1) A helium neon (HeNe) laser which typically operates at a wavelength of 6.32.8 nMe with the mandated power limit of 5mW of power. Said lasers are considered Class 2 lasers with the potential for eye injury; and

(2) A diode laser which typically operates at a wavelength of 670 nMe (although others are possible) with a power source providing 5mW. Said lasers are considered Class 3a lasers, with the potential for eye injury. (Ord. 99-1499 Art. I (part), 1999)

No person, firm or corporation shall sell to or provide a minor with a Class 2 or Class 3A laser pointer as described in this chapter unless the minor is accompanied by a parent or legal guardian at the time of purchase and transfer. No minor shall, at the time of purchase of such laser pointer, furnish fraudulent evidence of majority. No minor shall, except while accompanied by a parent or legal guardian, possess a Class 2 or Class 3a laser pointer as described in this chapter on any public property or any private property and with the express permission of the lawful owner or manager of the private property. Also provided, however, that the possession by a person under the age of eighteen years, under the direct supervision of the parent or guardian of such person in the privacy of the parent’s or guardian’s home, shall not be prohibited. (Ord. 99-1499 Art. I (part), 1999)

Any person found guilty of an offense of this chapter shall be subject to a fine of not less than one hundred dollars or more than seven hundred fifty dollars including, but not limited to, confiscation and destruction of said laser pointer and/or any other penalties set forth by state law. (Ord. 03-1606 § 2 (part), 2003; Ord. 99-1499 Art. I (part), 1999)

The parent or legal guardian of an unemancipated minor defendant who resides with such parent or legal guardian shall be subject to those liabilities as enumerated in Section 7.100.030. (Ord. 99-1499 Art. I (part), 1999)

Sec. 2. As used in this chapter, "laser pointer" means a device that emits light amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation that is visible to the human eye.

Sec. 4. A person who knowingly or intentionally directs light amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation that is visible to the human eye or any other electromagnetic radiation from a laser pointer at a public safety officer or a state police motor carrier inspector without the consent of the public safety officer or state police motor carrier inspector commits a Class B misdemeanor.

A. "Unlawful aiming of a laser at an aircraft" is the intentional projection of a laser on or at an aircraft or at the flight path of an aircraft in the aircraft jurisdiction of the state of Louisiana.

B. For purposes of this Section, the following terms have the following meanings:"Laser" means any device that projects a beam or point of light by means of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation or any device that emits light which simulates the appearance of a laser.

"Police officer" shall include commissioned police officers, sheriffs, deputy sheriffs, marshals, deputy marshals, correctional officers, constables, wildlife enforcement agents, and probation and parole officers.C. The provisions of this Section shall not prohibit aiming of a laser at an aircraft by any of the following:An authorized individual in the conduct of research and development or flight test operations conducted by an aircraft manufacturer, the Federal Aviation Administration, or any other person authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct research and development or flight test operations.

A person using a laser emergency signaling device to send an emergency distress signal.D.Whoever commits the crime of unlawful aiming of a laser at an aircraft shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than one year nor more than five years and shall be fined two thousand dollars.

On a conviction for a second or subsequent offense, the offender shall be imprisoned with or without hard labor for not less than two years nor more than ten years and shall be fined four thousand dollars.

(b) All laser pointers which are used in violation of this ordinance shall be confiscated. Upon conviction, the violator shall be fined up to five hundred ($500.00) dollars, or be imprisoned for up to six (6) months, or both.

The bill described below passed the House 139-0 on February 14 2013, and the Senate on April 5 2013. It was signed into law by Maryland’s governor on May 2 2013 and takes effect October 1 2013. A LaserPointerSafety.com story about the bill"s passage is. The bill"s legislative history, including the full text, is.

Proposed Maryland House Bill 130, the “Laser Safety Act”, would make it a misdemeanor to “knowingly and willfully cause or attempt to cause bodily injury by shining, pointing, or focusing the beam of a laser pointer on an individual operating a motor vehicle, vessel, or aircraft.” The penalty is a maximum 10 years in prison and a fine of up to $2,500.

Co-sponsor Sam Arora said “We need this law … we’re talking about potential death.” The Maryland State Police testified in support of the bill at a February 7 2012 hearing that “the results [of a laser incident] could be deadly.” A WJZ TV news report said “Blinding a pilot at night is a good way to kill people.”

The bill only applies to laser pointers, defined under Maryland law (Title 3, Subtitle 8, Section 3-806) as any device that emits visible laser light. There are exemptions for lasers used for flight testing for the Federal Aviation Administration, the Department of Defense and the Department of Homeland Security.

From,, and the. The full text of the bill is; the Maryland definition of laser pointer is.UPDATE March 27 2012: During committee markup, the language about "bodily injury", and the prohibitions against aiming at motor vehicles and vessels were removed. The new language says that it is a misdemeanor to "knowingly and willfully shine, point or focus the beam of a laser pointer on an individual operating an aircraft." (Changed text is underlined.) The revised bill passed the Maryland House March 22 by a vote of 136-0 and was sent to the Maryland Senate for their approval.

On May 19 2014, the town of Ocean City, MD passed emergency legislation, just days before the Memorial Day holiday weekend, banning laser pointers. Below in blue is the text of the legislation that passed. The gray text is part of the previous city code that remains unchanged by the May 19 action.

(a) As used herein a laser pointer is a battery-powered portable handheld device that emits a narrow beam of ultraviolet, visible or infrared light due to stimulated emission.

(2) It is unlawful for any person to shine a laser pointer directly or indirectly onto or from a balcony, porch, patio, deck or any other structure where a person or persons may gather or into any window or door, or into any vehicle on land, air or water, which includes but is not limited to cars, bicycles, scooters, buses, trams, planes, helicopters, boats, jet skis, motorcycles, Segways or wheelchairs, in any manner.(3) It is unlawful for any person to shine a laser pointer onto the beach, boardwalk, public streets, sidewalks, public waters, or other public property; or from private property onto the beach, boardwalk, public streets, sidewalks, public waters or other public property; or from public property onto private property; or from private property onto another private property.

(4) It is unlawful to possess a laser pointer on the beach, boardwalk, public streets, sidewalks, public waters, or other public property, except that a laser point[sic]may be used as part of a power point presentation and/or within a meeting of any kind for educational or instructional purposes and said use shall not be a violation of this Section.

It shall be unlawful for any person to focus, point or shine a laser beam directly or indirectly on another person or animal in such a manner as to harass or annoy said person or animal, and any such person convicted thereof shall be deemed guilty of a misdemeanor and shall be subject to a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500) or imprisonment for up to thirty (30) days or both.

Due to an increase in the use of laser pointers, the Ocean City [MD] Police Department this week is reminding residents and visitors of the town’s “harassment by laser pointer law.”

The ordinance, which has been in effect since last summer, makes it unlawful for anyone to focus or shine a laser pointer directly or indirectly on another person or animal in any manner. It is also unlawful for any person to shine a laser pointer directly or indirectly on a balcony, porch, patio, deck or any other structure where a person or persons may gather, or in any window or door, or any vehicle on land, air or water, which includes, but is not limited to cars, bicycles, scooters, buses, trams, planes, helicopters, boats, personal watercraft, motorcycles, Segways or wheelchairs in any manner.

It is also illegal for minors to purchase or possess laser pointers within the corporate limits of Ocean City. It is also a crime for any person to shine a laser pointer on the beach, Boardwalk public streets or sidewalks, or from public property onto private property, or from private property onto any other private property.

Additionally, it is unlawful to sell a laser pointer without having a sign conspicuously posted at the point of sale or exchange advising potential purchasers of the Ocean City laser pointer law. It is unlawful to sell a laser pointer without providing the purchaser with written notice in boldface type, a copy setting forth verbatim the laws spelled out in the Ocean City code.

"Directed energy device" means any device that emits highly focused energy and is capable of transferring that energy to a target to damage or interfere with its operation. The energy from a directed energy device includes the following forms of energy:

An ordinance to amend the Offenses Chapter (Chapter 14) of the code of the city of Dearborn by adding a new section 14-272, entitled, "Possession/Use of Laser Pointing Device"

(a) It shall be unlawful for any person to focus, point or shine a laser beam directly or indirectly on another person or animal in such a manner as to harass, annoy, or injure said person or animal.

(b) It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of eighteen years to possess a laser pointing device. A person shall not be in violation of this section if his possession of a laser emitting device is necessary for his employment, trade or occupation and it is necessary for the pointer to be carried on his person.

Beginning August 1, 2009, a new Minnesota law (SF1408) makes it a gross misdemeanor when a person "knowingly aims and discharges a laser or other device that creates visible light into the cockpit of an aircraft that is in the process of taking off or landing or is in flight."

Rick Hansen, the South St. Paul state legislator who introduced the bill, said in a press release: “Before August 1 you could point an over-the-counter laser right into the cockpit of a moving plane, put people’s lives at risk, and never be prosecuted. It’s happened before in Minnesota, and it will happen again; unless we do something about it.”

The release also noted that "Currently federal law prohibits this dangerous behavior for larger airplanes, but the crime has been rarely prosecuted at the federal level. In an effort to prevent laser-induced aircraft accidents, the new statute gives Minnesota law enforcement officials the right to arrest and prosecute any person knowingly discharging a laser at an airplane."

Effective August 28 2021, a new Missouri law makes it illegal to knowingly direct a light from a laser pointer at a uniformed safety officer, including a peace officer (as defined under section 590.010), security guard, firefighter, emergency medical worker, or other uniformed municipal, state, or federal officer.

In an explanation accompanying Ordinance 4880, a number of reasons for the laser pointer restrictions were detailed. These included warnings by the FDA on December 18 1997, a Princeton University study warning about visual interference hazards to pilots and motor vehicle operators, and cases where police drew weapons in response to having a laser light on or near them.

There were also local reasons cited: “Battlefield Mall Security and Management approached the City about an ordinance restricting the use of laser lights after a mall security officer experienced sharp pain and temporarily blurred vision in his eye after being flashed. The Springfield Police Department supports such an ordinance, having received numerous complaints and inquiries concerning the improper use of laser pointers. One case involves a local law enforcement officer’s spouse who was verbally abused and ultimately terrorized when she saw a red dot in her car and assumed she was being targeted with a weapon. Another offense includes a three-car collision, where a young man pointed a laser light into the car ahead of him and startled the driver, causing him to slam on his brakes and create a pileup.”

WHEREAS, the Food and Drug Administration has issued a warning to parents and school officials about the possibility of eye damage to children from hand-held laser pointers. These products are generally safe when used as intended by teachers and lecturers to highlight areas on a chart of screen. However, recent price reductions have led to wider marketing, and the City Council is concerned about the promotion and use of these products as children’s toys; and,

WHEREAS, laser pointers may be, and have been, used by individuals in the City so as to harass, annoy, and potentially cause bodily harm to those receiving contact with the laser beam; and,

(1) It shall be unlawful for any person to focus, point, or shine a laser beam directly or indirectly on another person or animal in such a manner as to harass, annoy, or injure said person or animal.

(2) It shall be unlawful for any person under the age of 18 years of age to possess a laser pointer except with the permission and under the direction and supervision of a person 21 years of age or older.

“….this Ordinance dealing with the immediate preservation of public health and safety is an emergency within the meaning of Section 1.12(1) of the Home Rule Charter of the City of Joplin, Missouri, and, as such, shall be in full force and effect immediately from and after its adoption and approval.”

1.  A person shall not willfully direct at an aircraft any light emitted from a laser device or other source which is capable of interfering with the vision of a person operating the aircraft with the intent to interfere with the operation of the aircraft.

(b) “Laser device” means a device that uses the natural oscillations of atoms or molecules between energy levels for generating coherent electromagnetic radiation in the ultraviolet, visible or infrared region of the spectrum and when discharged exceeds one milliwatt continuous wave.

92:1 Assault and Related Offenses; Conduct Involving Laser Pointing Devices. Amend:3-a to read as follows:631:3-a Conduct Involving Laser Pointing Devices.I.(a) Any person who knowingly shines the beam of a laser pointing device at an occupied motor vehicle, vessel, or window, or at a person shall be guilty of a violation and the laser pointing device shall be seized and forfeited upon conviction.

(b) Any person who knowingly shines the beam of a laser pointing device at an occupied aircraft shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and the laser pointing device shall be seized and forfeited upon conviction.

II. Any person who knowingly shines the beam of a laser pointing device at a law enforcement officer or law enforcement vehicle shall be guilty of a class A misdemeanor and the laser pointing device shall be seized and forfeited upon conviction.

III. It shall be an affirmative defense under this section if the laser pointing device was used in an organized meeting or training class by the instructor or speaker. Nothing in this section shall be construed so as to limit the use of medical lasers by qualified medical personnel, or construction lasers used by construction personnel in the course of their work, or laser devices utilized by law enforcement personnel in the performance of their official duties.

XIV. For any person to purposely or knowingly shine the beam of a laser pointing device at an aircraft that is in flight or in the process of takeoff, landing, or taxiing.

Purpose: Ocean City is a shore community surrounded by waters traversed by vessels of all types. Additionally, Ocean City has an airport frequented by planes and helicopters. Each year, Ocean City experiences incidents in which a vessel, plane or helicopter is illegally targeted with a laser pointer operated in Ocean City, and often purchased in Ocean City. The illegal use of laser pointers creates risks and dangers for those targeted by the beam of the laser, as well as for the citizens of Ocean City. Ocean City has a strong interest in banning the sale of these devices as a means of eliminating their illegal use.

b. For the purposes of this section, "laser pointer" means any device that emits laser light to project a beam that may be used for aiming, targeting or pointing out features.

On October 17 2013, New Jersey Governor Chris Christie vetoed proposed bill A3169/S418, passed by the legislature 106-8, that would have banned the sale of laser pointers over 1 milliwatt. Below is the text of Governor Christie"s letter to the Senate describing why he vetoed the bill.

The bill’s legislative history and text is available on the; use the “Bill Search” feature to search the 2012-2013 legislative session for the keyword “laser”. A LaserPointerSafety.com article about the veto, which also lists significant New Jersey-related laser events, is.

Pursuant to Article V, Section I, Paragraph 14 of the New Jersey Constitution, I am returning Senate Bill No. 418 (Second Reprint) without my approval.

This bill prohibits the sale of laser pointers that exceed one milliwatt in output power. Current federal regulations allow for the sale to consumers of laser pointers with outputs up to five milliwatts.

Presumably, the purpose of this bill is to deter the dangerous misuse of laser pointers. State and federal lawmakers, however, have already acted to prevent that misconduct. For example, New Jersey has enacted stringent penalties that criminalize aiming laser pointers at any vehicle, including an airplane. These state criminal penalties impose strict punishment of up to five to ten years in prison for a second-degree offense where the act causes serious bodily injury. In addition, federal law imposes criminal penalties for the dangerous misuse of a laser pointer, including fines, and up to five years in prison. Together, these existing state and federal criminal penalties are an important deterrent to the dangerous misuse of laser pointers.

This bill, however, goes well beyond the federal standards and would ban a whole class of one- to five-milliwatt laser pointers currently for sale at office supply stores as well as by the largest online retailers in the United States. Indeed, this legislation would ban the sale of one of the most common classes of consumer laser pointers, which are not typically used by criminals, but by business professionals to deliver presentations. Tellingly, the Legislature points to no instance of this class of laser pointer being used by even a single criminal in New Jersey.

For these reasons, placing the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs in charge of enforcing sales restrictions that exceed federal standards is not likely to deter dangerous conduct, but instead will interfere with otherwise lawful commerce within New Jersey. The criminal laws already protecting New Jersey residents from the dangerous misuse of laser pointers would not be bolstered by an arbitrary one-milliwatt sales restriction that is inconsistent with federal standards.

b. It shall be unlawful for any person to give, sell or offer to sell or cause any person to give, sell or offer to sell a laser pointer to any individual eighteen years of age or younger.

c. No person who sells or offers for sale laser pointers shall place such laser pointers on open display so that such laser pointers are accessible to the public without the assistance of such seller, or his or her employee or other agent, offering such laser pointers for sale, unless:

(1) such laser pointers on open display are clearly and fully visible from a place of payment for goods or services or customer information at which such seller or an employee or other agent of such seller is usually present during hours when the public is invited or

(2) such laser pointers are in a package, box or other container provided by the manufacturer, importer or packager that is larger than forty-one square inches. Further, it shall be unlawful to display laser pointers in any manner or to post a sign advertising the availability of laser pointers unless a notice has been posted, in a form and manner prescribed by rule of the department of consumer affairs, indicating that the sale or giving of laser pointers to persons eighteen years of age or younger is a misdemeanor.

d. It shall be unlawful for any person twenty years of age or younger to possess a laser pointer on school premises, unlawful for any person eighteen years of age or younger to possess a laser pointer while in a public place and unlawful for any person to direct light emitted from a laser pointer into or through a public place; provided, however, that nothing in this section shall preclude:

(1) the temporary transfer on school premises of a laser pointer to, or possession on school premises of a laser pointer by, a person twenty years of age or younger for a valid instructional, school-related or employment purpose, where such laser pointer is used under the supervision of a school staff person, other authorized instructor, employer or employer"s agent; or

(2) the temporary transfer in a public place of a laser pointer to, or possession in a public place of a laser pointer by, a person eighteen years of age or younger, during such person"s hours of employment, for a valid employment purpose, where such laser pointer is used under the supervision of the employer or employer"s agent; or

(3) the direction of light from a laser pointer into or through a public place by a person nineteen years of age or older, during such person"s hours of employment, for a valid employment purpose.

e. It shall be unlawful for any person to direct light from a laser pointer at a uniformed police officer, uniformed security guard, uniformed school safety officer, uniformed traffic enforcement agent, uniformed member of a paid or volunteer fire department, uniformed emergency medical service worker or uniformed ambulance worker, or other uniformed city, state or federal peace officer, investigator or emergency service worker, or the marked service vehicle of any such individual.

f. When a person is found to possess a laser pointer while in a public place or on school premises in violation of subdivision d of this section, it is an affirmative defense that:

(1) such person was traveling to or from school premises, where the laser pointer would have been or was used for a valid instructional, school-related or employment purpose under the supervision of a school staff person, other authorized instructor, employer or employer"s agent, and such person had not turned on the laser pointer or displayed it in a menacing or threatening manner; or

(2) such person was traveling to or from his or her place of employment, where the laser pointer would have been or was used during such person"s hours of employment, for a valid employment purpose, under the supervision of the employer of employer"s agent, and such person had not turned on the laser pointer or displayed it in a menacing or threatening manner.

g. Authorized agents and employees of the department of consumer affairs, and of any other agency designated by the mayor, shall have the authority to enforce the provisions of subdivisions b and c of this section. A proceeding to recover any civil penalty pursuant to this section shall be commenced by the service of a notice of hearing that shall be returnable to the administrative tribunal of the department of consumer affairs. The administrative tribunal of the department shall have the power to impose civil penalties for a violation of subdivision b or c of this section as follows: not more than three hundred dollars for the first violation; not more than five hundred dollars for the section violation by the same person within a two-year period; and not more than one thousand dollars for the third and all subsequent violations by the same person within a two-year period. For purposes of determining whether a violation of subdivision b or subdivision c of this section should be adjudicated as a second, third or subsequent violation, violations of subdivision b and violations of subdivision c of this section by the same person within a two-year period shall be aggregated.

A person is guilty of directing a laser at an aircraft in the second degree when, with intent to disrupt safe air travel, he or she directs the beam of a laser:

1. Onto a specific aircraft intending to thereby disrupt or interfere with such aircraft in the special aircraft jurisdiction of the United States; or

(a) the calculated or measured beam irradiance on the aircraft, or in the immediate vicinity of the aircraft, exceeds limits set by the FAA for the FAA-specified laser flight zone (normal, sensitive, critical, or laser-free) where the aircraft was located; and

A person is guilty of directing a laser at an aircraft in the first degree when he or she commits the crime of directing a laser at an aircraft in the second degree in violation of section 240.76 of this article and thereby causes a significant change of course or other serious disruption to the safe travel of an aircraft that threatens the physical safety of the aircraft"s passengers or crew.

B. Any person who knowingly and maliciously projects a laser, as defined in this section, on or at a law enforcement officer without the consent of the officer while the officer is acting within the scope of the official duties of the officer shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not more than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). Any person who commits a second or subsequent violation of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), a term of imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

C. Anyone who knowingly aims the beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft in flight or at the flight path of an aircraft shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine of not more than One Hundred Dollars ($100.00). Any person who commits a second or subsequent violation of this section shall be guilty of a misdemeanor punishable by a fine of not more than Five Hundred Dollars ($500.00), a term of imprisonment in the county jail for a period of not more than six (6) months, or by both such fine and imprisonment.

D. This section does not prohibit aiming a beam of a laser pointer at an aircraft, or the flight path of such an aircraft by:An authorized individual in the conduct of research and development or flight test operations conducted by an aircraft manufacturer, the Federal Aviation Administration, or any other person authorized by the Federal Aviation Administration to conduct research and development or flight test operations;

By an individual using a laser emergency signaling device to send an emergency distress signal.E. As used in this section:"Laser" or "laser pointer" means any device that projects a beam or point of light by means of light amplification by stimulated emission of radiation or a device that emits light which simulates the appearance of a laser designed or used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by stimulated emission that emits a beam designed to be used by the operator as a pointer or highlighter to indicate, mark or identify a specific position, place, item or object; and

(1) A person commits the offense of unlawful directing of light from a laser pointer if the person knowingly directs light from a laser pointer at another person without the consent of the other person and the other person is:

(3) As used in this section, “laser pointer” means a device that emits light amplified by the stimulated emission of radiation that is visible to the human eye. [1999 c.757 §1; 2005 c.447 §9]

The Puerto Rico Legislative Assembly on July 30 2014 approved an “Act to Prohibit the Unlawful Use of Laser Devices,” S.B. 799. It makes it illegal under Commonwealth law to intentionally or knowingly point a laser pointer at an aircraft or at a law enforcement officer. Violation is a misdemeanor with a penalty of up to six months in jail and up to a $5,000 fine.

In addition, if the laser pointing results in serious bodily harm to a human being (defined as “an injury that requires hospitalization, long-term treatment, or causes permanent or mutilating injuries”), the violation becomes a felony.

As of August 14 2014, it is not known if the act has been signed by the Governor, and thus whether it has become an official law.[Usually, such laws are signed by the executive. However, in October 2013,, passed by the legislature, that would have banned the sale of laser pointers over 1 milliwatt.]

To establish the “Act to Prohibit the Unlawful Use of Laser Devices,” in order to criminalize the act of pointing a laser device at an aircraft or law enforcement officers to prevent them from carrying out their duties or operating a vehicle, thus endangering their safety and that of all other citizens.

A laser pointer is a device designed to highlight something of interest by illuminating it with a small bright spot. It is a relatively simple device that has many uses. It may be the size of a keychain or look like a battery flashlight. Laser pointers are most commonly used by people during audio visual presentations. These devices may be easily accessed and their power varies depending on the use for which it was designed.

Even though laser pointers may seem harmless and have varied lawful uses, there has been a recent proliferation of extremely dangerous practices that attempt against aviation and law enforcement officers’ safety.

With regard to aviation, when these devices are aimed at the cockpit of an aircraft, its intensity magnifies and enters into the cockpit of an aircraft as a bright and highly-intense light. Consequently, pilots are temporarily distracted, losing sight of the navigation tools and reference of the exact location of the aircraft. In addition, the permanent eye injuries that laser devices may cause could end the careers of aviation professionals. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has stated that the reported number of incidents involving the misuse of laser devices increased from 2,836 in 2010 to 3,592 in 2011. Reports show a growing trend of these incidents since 2005. Most of such incidents involved the use of green laser pointers which are particularly hazardous given that the human eye is more sensitive to the yellow-green light spectrum. Seventy-two (72) out of the 3,482 incidents reported in the United States during 2012 took place in Puerto Rico.

Between January 1 and August 9, 2013, the Puerto Rico Police Department received forty-five (45) complaints of pilots that have been victim of these incidents. Such incidents are mostly reported in the northern region of the Island while airplanes are approaching the Luis Muñoz-Marín International Airport (SJU). Such an attack to the cockpit of an aircraft during the final approach to landing may lead to potentially fatal consequences, since pilots lose reference of their exact location with respect to the ground. Attacks to the Air Traffic Control Tower of the SJU have also been reported.

The pilots of the Puerto Rico Police Department have also been victims of this kind of attack. Police helicopter pilots have been shined by laser pointers while providing air support during police raids. Consequently, they leave such raids, endangering the safety of the police officers in the ground.

Another unscrupulous act is using a laser pointer to intimidate or threaten a law enforcement officer. In these cases, the laser device is pointed at the body of the law enforcement officer causing him/her to believe that a firearm is pointed at him/her. Likewise, other emergency service officers such as paramedics and firefighters, to name a few, have been victims of this kind of attack. The situation worsens when such attack takes place while they are operating a motor vehicle, given that their reaction when feeling threatened may jeopardize their safety and that of others.

Currently, aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft constitutes a federal crime. Also, states such as South Carolina, Georgia, and Washington, among others, have enacted laws that criminalize aiming a laser pointer at an aircraft, motor vehicle, and law enforcement officers. The purpose of legislative initiatives taken in the Island is to provide additional tools to prosecute these offenses at both the Federal and the State levels. However, Puerto Rico does not have a statute prohibiting the indiscriminate use of these devices; thus, the malicious use thereof usually goes unpunished. This legislation is promulgated to promote collaboration between State and Federal law enforcement agencies to investigate and prosecute individuals responsible for misusing laser devices, so as to guarantee aviation and law enforcement officers’ safety. Therefore, in order to deal with the misuse of laser pointers, the Legislative Assembly deems it necessary to classify the emission of laser beams in certain circumstances as an offense.

(a) “Law Enforcement Officer”.- means any member or official of the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico or the United States of America, or of any political subdivision of Puerto Rico or the United States, whose duties are making arrests, including, but not limited to: the members of the Ranger Corps of the Department of Natural and Environmental Resources, the Puerto Rico Police Department, Assistant Police, the Municipal Police, Special Agents of the Federal Bureau of Investigations of the Department of Justice, Custody Officers of the Corrections Administration, Custody Officers of the Pretrial Services Office, the National Guard while performing official duties and exercises, Custody Officers of the Juvenile Institutions Administration, the Internal Security Corps of the Ports Authority, the Director of the Drugs and Narcotics Control Office and the Controlled Substances Inspectors of the Mental Health and Addiction Services Administration, Investigating Officers of the Office of the Assistant Secretary of Investigations of the Correctional System of the Department of Corrections and Rehabilitation, the Inspectors of the Public Service Commission, the bailiffs of the General Courts of Justice of Puerto Rico, the marshals of the Federal Courts with jurisdiction in Puerto Rico, and the Internal Revenue Inspectors of the Department of the Treasury.

(c) “Laser Pointer”.- is a handheld device used to amplify electromagnetic radiation by simulated emission that emits a beam visible to the human eye.

Section 3.- A person who intentionally or knowingly points, directs or aims a laser pointer shall be guilty of a misdemeanor and upon conviction shall be punished by a fine not to exceed five thousand dollars ($5,000), imprisonment for a term not to exceed six (6) months, or both penalties at the discretion of the court in the following circumstances:

(a) When a person points a laser at a law enforcement officer or agent engaged in the performance of his/her official duties in such a manner that such officer or agent would reasonably believe that a firearm is pointed at him/her;

(b) When a person points a laser at a law enforcement